After a UFC 136 loss and an unsuccessful third bid at a UFC title, Kenny Florian isn’t sure what’s next.

In a statement released today, the 35-year-old said he’s taking some time away from the sport, though he’s not sure if that could lead to a retirement.

Florian, who suffered a unanimous-decision loss to featherweight champ Jose Aldo at this past weekend’s pay-per-view event in Houston, said that decision will come at a later time.

“First, I’d like to thank Jose Aldo for giving me the opportunity to compete for the featherweight title last Saturday,” Florian stated. “I gave the fight my all, but Jose won that night. I would also like to thank the UFC, Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta for their continued support.

“I am passionate about mixed martial arts, and I love being involved in this sport. It is incredible to see how much MMA has grown and that, today, there are millions of people who enjoy the UFC as much as I do.

“Second, everyone is asking what is next for me. The only response I can give right now is that I’m going to take some time. I want to rest, spend some time with my family and friends, and then evaluate all of my options. I’ll speak with Dana, and my manager, Glenn Robinson, and we will figure out my next move. When I make that decision, my fans will be the first to know. One way or another, you haven’t seen the last of Ken-Flo!”

Florian (14-6 MMA, 12-5 UFC) made his pro debut in 2003, and after a runner-up finish on the first season of “The Ultimate Fighter,” he has fought exclusively in the UFC, where he’s posted a 12-5 record with victories over notables such as Clay Guida, Takanori Gomi, Joe Lauzon, Sam Stout and Joe Stevenson. However, in his trio of title fights – two at lightweight against Sean Sherk and B.J. Penn, as well as the featherweight shot against Aldo – he’s failed to claim MMA’s biggest prize.

But the fan favorite is one of MMA’s most recognizable personalities, thanks in part to his current hosting duties on ESPN’s weekly “MMA Live” program.

Immediately after UFC 136, Florian also said he wasn’t sure about his fighting future. But UFC president Dana White said he’ll always have a home with the UFC.

“I’ve got nothing but respect for him, and Kenny Florian will be with us
no matter what,” White said. “Kenny Florian’s awesome. He commentated our last show. I
think he’s great on camera. I think he’s great on the mic. He’s a
talented guy with a lot of options, and he’s always been a solid guy
with us and always been a team player.”

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